A folk dance from Southern Tamil Nadu, Oyilaatam is performed with much grace mostly by men, who dance waving coloured handkerchiefs from their hands. A rural art form mostly performed during festivals, Oyilaatam is accompanied by the Tavil (drums) and folk songs.

Also watch: Kali dances - Thappattam

Kali dances - Karagattam


Aparna Karthikeyan

Aparna Karthikeyan is an independent journalist, author and Senior Fellow, PARI. Her non-fiction book 'Nine Rupees an Hour' documents the disappearing livelihoods of Tamil Nadu. She has written five books for children. Aparna lives in Chennai with her family and dogs.

Other stories by Aparna Karthikeyan